August 20, 2010

"Radical" read-along

Have you heard of the book "Radical" by David Platt? It's part of a church movement called "The Radical Experiment" which essentially challenges Christians to take a hard look at the way we live our lives. It's extremely convicting and invigorating at the same time, and it's definitely not for "Sunday-only Christians" (or maybe it is...who am I to say?!).

Without going much further into it (you can do that on your own), I am excited to be a part of an online read-along of Radical, put on by another blogger, Marla Taviano. The study starts Sept. 7 and will go over a chapter a week. I am so excited about this! I have read the first couple of chapters before and it's the kind of book that really needs to be discussed and brainstormed about. Due to kids and other fun aspects of my life (insert sarcasm font here), I never made the time to finish reading. So now I have motivation! I am posting this on my blog to invite others to join along in the reading and subsequent discussions. If you have a heart for missions and (like me) struggle with Matthew 19:21-22, this might be just the study you need! Oh, and you don't necessarily need to have a blog to participate. :)

2 comments:

Pretty powerful message! Ya know, it's tough balancing what God wants FOR us and what He demanded OF us. Certainly there is a balance. The 'mid-point' will be different for each and everyone of us. It's based on the talent (fruit of the Spirit?) each has been blessed with. Not all are evangelicals, not all are teachers, not all are missionaries, not all can provide hospitality, and not all can give millions of dollars to good causes. Keep in mind, we will be held accountable based on what was provided (given) us and how well we use it (Luke 12:48). This doesn't only apply to money. I don't know where this 'Radical' study is going, but the audio is pretty compelling, if not daunting. I personally do not believe everyone is expected to give the same thing (talent), let alone an equal amount of it.

While I most definitely agree with Ken, I think the bigger question being asked is not necessarily "Why aren't you a missionary" and more "Are you using what I gave you?" Keep in mind the subtitle of Mr. Platt's book, "Taking back your faith from the American Dream." Speaking from the precipice of self-conviction I spend far more of my resources (mental, physical, and financial) worrying about my business instead of the great commission (Matthew 28:16-20) or how my brothers and sisters in Christ are being persecuted (truly persecuted in a saw-off-your-hands type of way) and struggling to perpetuate the gospel. Please understand that I am not trying to be contentious, rather shed some light on the topic with the first few chapters that I have read from the book.